Kootenai National Forest, MT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Kootenai National Forest campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Kootenai National Forest, MT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
"This lake is never a disappointment! Easy access roads, nice boat launch, and solid camping sites."
"The sites easy to access and the toilet is vey close and clean. There is a train track in the background but the trains are very short. They don’t bother me because I love trains."
"Just about a mile from the highway, this site is right on the river with some nice deep pools. There are three separate fire rings with a vault toilet and picnic table."
"Arrived in the dark so it was a little tricky to pick out the campsites, but we found a great site with plenty of space to setup 5 tents. Camped"
"Less than five miles from the highway, this is a nice sized lake stocked with fish. There were a pair of white swans on the lake when I was there but no one else around."
"at the end of the trail last spot at the end of the lake, fire pit had a cut log to sit on, great view, would not try to bling a trailer down there"
"There are a few primitive campsites near the lake. Sites include two bear boxes and a vault toilet. Bring your own water and/or water filter."
"Red Meadow Lake is a small lake with only few camping spots, very remote and peaceful. Fishing on the lake is good, summer swimming and kayaking."
"Max fourteen day free camping at this equestrian camp. Tie outs, feeding area and mounting ramp. Several sites along with fire rings and picnic tables."
GuideThis was my first ever backpacking experience and was a great introduction for me. We did the 3.5-mile trail. It was challenging and encouraging. My dog loved it too, and she's a larger breed! I would recommend this trek for anyone who is wanting to learn and practice backpacking skills. There are a few cleared areas for dispersed camping at the lake and a few other locations along the 3.5-mile trail and the 11-mile trail to Engle Lake. It is mostly uphill along both trails, though, so be mindful of that when considering equipment and weight. It is a gorgeous spot and is close to the Engle Peak summit with 360-degree views of the Cabinet Mountains. When we were here, there were a lot of Elk and Moose foot-traffic. They probably won't bother you. Just be aware of them and store your food properly. There have been grizzly bears spotted here, but not that frequently, apparently. Nonetheless, bring a bear canister and place it 100-300 feet from your tent. Enjoy the preserved and lightly trafficked gem! And as always, leave no trace and follow COVID-19 and social distancing guidelines :)
GuideLess than five miles from the highway, this is a nice sized lake stocked with fish. There were a pair of white swans on the lake when I was there but no one else around. A large parking area, could accommodate a travel trailer or two in addition to a couple tent sites with fire rings. One picnic table with a fire pit and rock fire rings at the tent sites. There are two access roads, the first is more appropriate for van, truck or hike in to tent site. Not a lot of turn around room, wouldn't bring a trailer in. Second turn off goes to a much larger area, multiple sites and boat launch access to the lake.
GuideDispersed spot in the flathead national forest. Did some group camping here. Nice and open, however it was absolutely littered with trash. Some a moose!
GuideWe stayed here in June 2019 while on a motorcycle trip. The area is a large open spot, known to the locals, down by the river. There are no facilities, but if that is what you are looking for, its a perfect spot. We only had one other camper (in a car) and it was very clean.
GuideIt’s still ok to stay here, but not many spots left. Officer came by to say these roads aren’t supposed to be here (and many were already blocked off) but you can still park in any of the sandy/ dirt road but can’t pull off anywhere. Took our licenses down.
GuideCedar Creek trailhead is not officially a campground but the parking lot can be used for camping at after 5PM. It is not massive lot, but there is plenty of space for five or six tents or car campers. A spring runs next to the lot and if you have a filter, its makes for a great place to resupply on water.
I stayed here in June 2022 and had no issues with locals driving up.
Guideat the end of the trail last spot at the end of the lake, fire pit had a cut log to sit on, great view, would not try to bling a trailer down there
LegendIt’s Saturday and no one is here but me. Picnic tables, metal fire rings with grills, vault toilets. Big pretty pine trees! I get one bar of Verizon service but it’s not very useful.
TravelerConvenient dirt spot with a few places.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Kootenai National Forest in Montana, where nature enthusiasts can find serene spots away from the crowds. This area offers a variety of locations for those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best spots for dispersed camping in Kootenai National Forest?
Kootenai National Forest offers excellent dispersed camping options. Red Meadow Lake is a standout location with primitive sites near the lake, bear boxes, and a vault toilet. It's perfect for fishing, summer swimming, and stargazing. For equestrian campers, Theriault Lakes Horse Camp provides free camping (14-day maximum) with tie-outs, feeding areas, and mounting ramps along a creek. Other great options include Bull Lake for fishing, Stillwater Lake for paddling and cliff jumping, and the Libby Creek Gold Panning Area for those interested in recreational gold panning. Bring water filters, be prepared for mosquitoes in summer months, and practice proper food storage in this bear country.
Is camping allowed near Kootenai Falls?
Camping directly at Kootenai Falls is not permitted as it's a day-use recreational area. However, nearby dispersed camping options exist in the surrounding Kootenai National Forest. Just Past Schnaus Cabin Dispersed offers riverside camping in a large open area not far from the falls region. This primitive site has no facilities but provides a clean, peaceful spot by the water. Alternatively, Stillwater River offers camping about a mile from the highway with fire rings, a vault toilet, and picnic tables beside deep river pools. Most dispersed sites in the area follow standard Forest Service regulations: 14-day maximum stays, pack-in/pack-out trash policies, and camping at least 100 feet from water sources.
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Kootenai National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Kootenai National Forest is Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Kootenai National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 19 dispersed camping locations near Kootenai National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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